NEWBURGH - The Shade Tree Commission’s "Greening Broadway" project got a big boost from building owners Sal Boutureira and John Varriano when they ensured that new sidewalk plans included space for four trees on Upper Broadway.
Shade Tree Commissioners prepared the 5’x5’ tree pits, and on Friday, after continual weather and water emergencies subsided, the Commission and the DPW crew were able to plant two red maples and two pear trees on the south side of Broadway near Anna’s Restaurant.
New Image Beauty Salon (481 Broadway) owner Susie came out to admire the improvements, and the DEC’s Urban Forester George Profus came from New Paltz to inspect the plantings.
"Greening Broadway" will continue across the street in the spring, when other sidewalks are replaced or repaired. On this thriving block, business owners are enthusiastically planning for tree plantings, because they understand that attractive streetscapes draw customers. The Broadway Transformation Committee assisted the Shade Tree Commission in establishing a special account for donations.
Shade Tree Chairman Phil Prinzivalli said, "We owe the success of this project to Mr. Boutureira and Mr. Varriano, who saw an opportunity to improve their neighborhood, and to the DPW crew for their labors to help put the trees in the ground before Thanksgiving. We look forward to collaborating with other businesses in the spring - Greening Broadway is a great project!"
